Monolithic Time Delay Integrated APD Arrays

The overall goal of the proposed phase II SBIR program is to develop a compact, high SNR TDI APD array for future NASA earth observing missions. The enabling TDI APD technology is based on ultra-high sensitivity AlInAs/GaInAs APDs operable in the 1240 to 1640-nm spectra band integrated with Si CCDs that will enable for the first time, true TDI and CCD-like detector operation at these wavelengths. The performance of this TDI APD array will meet or exceed current performance requirements for radiometric sensors. The TDI APD array sensor will be designed to operate at 300K resulting in a significant weight, size and power reduction. At the conclusion of the program, we will deliver to NASA for evaluation and for mission insertion, fully packaged end-to-end tested TDI APD arrays with SNR in the range of 570-1066 within the 1240-nm and 1640-nm spectral band.